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Boards Quote by Oscar Levant

“When I appeared before the draft board examiner during World War II, he asked me if I thought I could kill. "I don't know about strangers," I replied, "but friends, certainly."” quote by Oscar Levant
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“When I appeared before the draft board examiner during World War II, he asked me if I thought I could kill. "I don't know about strangers," I replied, "but friends, certainly."”

Oscar Levant

About This Quote

Even in war, the speaker distinguishes between killing strangers and friends, highlighting moral boundaries in combat.

In simple terms: He refuses to kill strangers but accepts killing friends.

Key Takeaway

Recognize personal moral limits in extreme situations.

Themes

morality war personal ethics

Mood

somber thoughtful

Type

reflective ethical

When to use this quote

  • military service
  • ethical training
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

combat psychology human relationships

Questions to Reflect On

  • When have you faced a moral compromise?
  • Can duty justify harming those you care about?
A Different Perspective

War demands actions that may conflict with personal morals.

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